Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is one of Australia's largest family support programs, yet many eligible families either don't claim it at all or claim only one of the two parts. This guide breaks down both parts clearly, with current income thresholds and payment rates.
What Is Family Tax Benefit?
FTB is a fortnightly payment administered by Services Australia (Centrelink) for families raising children. It has two separate parts with different eligibility rules — you can receive one, both, or neither depending on your circumstances.
Family Tax Benefit Part A
What it covers: A per-child payment based on your family's combined income and the ages of your children.
Payment rates (2024–25)
| Child's age | Maximum fortnightly rate |
|---|---|
| 0–12 years | $222.04 per child |
| 13–15 years | $288.82 per child |
| 16–19 years (studying) | $288.82 per child |
Income thresholds
- Full rate: Family income under approximately $62,634/year
- Reduced rate: Family income up to approximately $112,578/year (for one child; threshold increases with each additional child)
- Above the threshold, FTB Part A reduces by 20 cents for every dollar over the limit
Note: These thresholds adjust each financial year. Always confirm current figures with Services Australia.
Who qualifies for Part A?
- You care for a dependent child under 16, or under 20 if they're in full-time secondary study
- The child is an Australian resident
- Your family income is within the threshold
- You're an Australian resident
Family Tax Benefit Part B
What it covers: An additional payment for single-parent families, or couples where one parent earns significantly less (or nothing).
Payment rates (2024–25)
| Youngest child's age | Maximum fortnightly rate |
|---|---|
| Under 5 years | $188.86 |
| 5–13 years | $131.74 |
Income rules for Part B
For couples, the secondary earner (the one with lower income) must earn under $100,900/year. The payment reduces as the secondary earner's income increases above $5,767/year.
For single parents, there's no income test on Part B — you only need to meet the primary income test.
Who qualifies for Part B?
- Single parents with a child under 13
- Couples where one parent earns under $100,900/year and the youngest child is under 13
- (In some circumstances, age extends to 18 for single parents with a child in secondary study)
How to Claim
- Create or log in to myGov and link your Centrelink account
- Go to Payments and Claims → Make a claim → Family assistance
- Complete the guided questions — it takes around 30 minutes
- Provide supporting documents (birth certificates, income details)
You can claim up to 12 months backdated, so if you've been eligible but not claiming, it's worth applying now.
Common Mistakes
Claiming only one part: Many families claim Part A but not Part B, or assume Part B is only for very low earners. Run the numbers — the Part B threshold is higher than most people realise.
Not updating your income estimate: FTB is based on an income estimate you provide at the start of the year. If your income drops mid-year, update it immediately — you'll receive higher payments rather than waiting for a year-end reconciliation.
Stopping when your youngest turns 13: Part A continues until age 16 (or 20 for students). Many families mistakenly stop claiming.
What Else Might You Be Eligible For?
If you're receiving FTB, you likely also qualify for:
- Rent Assistance (if renting privately)
- Child Care Subsidy (if using approved childcare)
- Health Care Card (automatic with some FTB rates)
- State-based family payments (varies by state)
The best way to check everything you're entitled to in one go is to use AusSchemes — enter your details once and see all federal and state payments relevant to your situation.